— Ford is recalling 2013 Ford Escape SE and SEL models equipped with the 1.6-liter engine and 2013 Ford Fusion SE and SEL models equipped with the 1.6-liter engine.
The recall affects about 73,320 Escapes and 15,833 Fusions in the U.S. and Canada, most in the U.S. It's the fourth recall since July for the 2013 Escape.
Ford said they received reports of engines overheating resulting in engine fires while the engine is running. If this would happen to you, Ford said they will compensate owners for costs tied to overheating.
Even if your vehicle is running fine, Ford wants customers to contact their dealer as soon as possible to arrange for alternative transportation at no charge. Repair procedures are not currently available but Ford is working on a fix.
When parts are available, the company will notify customers so they can schedule an appointment with dealers.
How To Tell if Your Vehicle is Affected
To find out if your vehicle is affected by the recall, check your 17-digit VIN, located on a label on the driver door opening, at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side of their vehicle, or on their vehicle registration. In vehicles with 1.6-liter engines, the eighth character will be “X” on Escapes or “R” on Fusions.
U.S. owners also may call 866-436-7332 and Canadian customers also may call 888-222-7814 for details on alternative transportation.
A Rough Year For Escape Owners
Ford hasn't had good success with the 2013 Escape when it comes to recalls, especially those vehicles equipped with the 1.6L engine.
In September, Ford recalled the 2013 1.6L Escape because leaking antifreeze made an engine fire a real possibility.
In July, Ford told owners of the 2013 Ford Escape to immediately park their vehicles because a fuel line could split and leak, which could cause the SUV to go up in smoke. That recall specifically targeted the same 1.6L engine.
Again in July, Ford recalled the 2013 model year Escape because of carpet padding problems. Ford said the problem could cause your foot to hit the side of the brake pedal when trying to switch from the gas pedal to the brake pedal.
Ford also took a hit in late July when 420,000 model year 2001-2004 Escapes were recalled because of sticking throttles.
As for the 2013 Ford Fusion, it recently won a safety award in crash test results, but of course, that didn't address whether the vehicle could catch fire when not in a crash. (Read The Top 5 Reported Problems with the Ford Fusion)
